Read James 1:1 NIV
“James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered among the nations: greetings.”
Let’s consider James, whom God chose to communicate this message. James, “the Lord’s brother” (Galatians 1:19), was writing a letter to the scattered Jewish residents of surrounding gentile (non-Jewish) countries.
James had been one of those to who Jesus revealed Himself when He was resurrected (1 Corinthians 15:3-8) and Paul called him one of the pillars of the church, along with Cephas (Peter) and John.
James certainly saw trials and tribulations in his own life, not the least of which was through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. What must it have been like, actually having a front-row seat to God revealing His plan for the present and future of the human race? Some words that come to my mind are thrilling, mind-boggling, heartbreaking, joyous, and full of hope! For all of those who witnessed the living Jesus, it was life-altering, whether they believed it or not.
As we study the book of James let’s start by considering: what are we living through, personally and/ or corporately, and, more importantly, how are we responding? What story will we tell after having seen Jesus in our own lives?
Pray:
“God as we begin our study of the book of James, please open our eyes to see you moving in our lives and speak to us. What would you have us do and how should we respond? We pray that you use us, according to your will, to minister to others even as you minister to us. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”
